Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc., Baltimore Chapter [Report]



Reported by SwanoDown


Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc., Baltimore Chapter and the Top Teens of America, Baltimore Chapter, are proud to be at the forefront of community service and engagement within Baltimore City and Baltimore County. Together, these organizations embody a steadfast commitment to enriching lives, fostering opportunities, and cultivating a brighter future for our communities.

A Conversation with Baltimore's Changemakers

Recently, I had the privilege of sitting down with Lady Teneshia Richards-Brooks, Chapter President of the Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc., Baltimore Chapter, to learn more about the organization’s impact and vision for the future.

“The Baltimore Chapter was chartered by the late visionary Lady Fannie B. Poulson on April 2, 1978, and our chapter has spent the last 47 years working, growing, and cultivating a legacy of service in Baltimore. Each year brings new opportunities to expand our reach and deepen our impact," President Richards-Brooks shared proudly.

Who They Are

The Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. (TLOD), founded in 1964, is a national humanitarian organization dedicated to community service and youth development. The Baltimore Chapter exemplifies this mission through its strategic focus on education, community partnerships, and impactful service initiatives. Complementing this effort, the Top Teens of America (TTA) is the youth arm of TLOD, providing young people with opportunities to develop leadership skills, engage in meaningful service projects, and build lifelong connections.

A Glimpse Into Their Activities

President Richards-Brooks highlighted some of the recent initiatives spearheaded by the Baltimore Chapter.

“We focus on everything from educational workshops to community health and wellness programs,” she explained. “For example, we’ve hosted financial literacy sessions, organized neighborhood beautification projects, and mentored our Top Teens as they lead their own impactful efforts.”


Recent initiatives have included:

  1. Educational Advancement: Hosting workshops on financial literacy, college readiness, and career exploration for teens.
  2. Community Health and Wellness: Conducting health fairs, blood drives, and mental health awareness sessions.
  3. Environmental Sustainability: Leading neighborhood beautification projects, recycling drives, and tree-planting events.
  4. Youth Empowerment: Supporting Top Teens as they organize projects like distributing care packages to the homeless and organizing clothing drives.

“These activities aren’t just about giving back,” President Richards-Brooks added. “They’re about investing in Baltimore’s future and showing our love for this community.”

Upcoming Initiatives

Looking ahead, the chapter has an exciting lineup of activities designed to uplift and empower the community. Highlights include:

  • Galentine’s Day Line Dancing Scholarship Party
  • Lupus Awareness Webinar
    • https://bit.ly/TLODBaltimore65
  • St. Jude’s 50/50 Fundraiser
    • https://bit.ly/TLODBaltimore60

Learn more about their upcoming events online via TLODBaltimore.org!

Our Love for Baltimore

When asked about the motivation behind their tireless efforts, Lady Richards-Brooks shared, “Baltimore is a city of strength, diversity, and potential. Through service, we aim to honor its legacy and help shape its future. Every initiative we undertake is rooted in our deep love for this city and its people.”

Baltimore is more than just a place on a map; it is a community that inspires resilience and hope. The Ladies, Lords, and Teens of the Baltimore Chapter are determined to ensure that every individual feels the positive impact of their work.

How You Can Get Involved

The success of the Top Ladies of Distinction and Top Teens of America depends on the support of dedicated members, volunteers, and partners. Mrs. Richards-Brooks emphasized the many ways community members can join their mission:

  • Consider joining our upcoming events to learn how to become a member of TLOD or TTA.
  • Sponsor or donate to support their programs and initiatives.
  • Spread the word about their work to friends, family, and colleagues.


Looking Forward

As the conversation drew to a close, Lady Richards-Brooks offered a heartfelt invitation: “We welcome everyone to join us on this journey of service and impact. Together, we can ensure that Baltimore’s best days are ahead of us.”

To learn more about Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc., Baltimore Chapter, and the Top Teens of America, Baltimore Chapter, visit TLODBaltimore.org. Follow them on social media to stay updated on their upcoming events and initiatives via @TLODBaltimore and @TTABaltimore. Baltimore’s future is bright, and with organizations like TLOD and TTA leading the way, the possibilities are endless.


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